Lama Monachile, also known as Cala Porto, is without a doubt considered the most beautiful and evocative beach in Polignano a Mare.
It’s impossible not to be enchanted by such a spectacle! The scenery is worthy of the finest paintings, yet it is reality: a high cliff where many small sea caves are set, and as if that weren't enough, man has contributed to making it even more picturesque with the construction of houses perched on the sea.
A spectacle that is difficult to describe, but that needs to be experienced!
Lama Monachile beach in Polignano a Mare
Lama Monachile beach is located in the very center of the town and was an ancient commercial port built by the Bourbons, which is why it is also called Cala Porto. Given its location, it's impossible not to see it and be enchanted by it.
Lama Monachile beach is composed of rounded and smooth pebbles shaped by the sea and features a rocky and rapidly deep seabed.
The free beach is rather small and, precisely because it is located in the town center, it is particularly crowded in mid-summer. We recommend going early in the morning to secure a spot (also because early morning is truly enchanting).
Access to the sea is possible via a staircase near the bridge (which we will discuss later), and another via a descent that starts from Via Conversano, which is not recommended for disabled and elderly people.
The beach does not have public services, but there are many nearby bars, establishments, and lidos where you can use toilets and find refreshment in the shade.
Parking is about 300 meters away and is both free and paid: however, be careful during high season!
The Lama Monachile bridge in Polignano a Mare
Lama Monachile beach owes its name to the eponymous Bourbon bridge, still passable, which intersects the ancient Via Traiana and offers postcard-perfect views. Built in the 1830s and 15 meters high, the bridge offers breathtaking views.
While everyone focuses on the "sea side," few notice the inland side of the Lama. This side hides numerous treasures: centuries-old bridges, winding paths, caves, and ancient passages.
Let's therefore follow the descent which, next to an unsightly concrete "cube" under construction for the sewage system, leads us to a shorter and lower bridge than the 19th-century one. This small bridge, however, is much older: it dates back to the 2nd century AD and is a single-span Roman bridge, part of the Via Traiana, which connected Benevento to Brindisi. Built with amber tuff blocks, the bridge is in excellent condition thanks to a recent restoration.
In front of us, two-story white houses with green shutters and plaster partly eroded by salt spray emerge. These houses directly overlook the bridge and are connected by stone steps, with short trees with thick dark foliage on the sides.
Red Bull Cliff Diving: the spectacular diving competition held in Cala Porto
In the sea off Lama Monachile beach, champions of the Red Bull Cliff Diving dive from a platform on a balcony overlooking the sea. The international competition, held in Polignano, is the most important high-diving event.
This competition combines sport and spectacle. Divers launch themselves from over twenty meters high (27 for men, 21 for women). In just 3 seconds, and at about 85 km/h, they perform spectacular maneuvers before entering the water.
This year the competition will be held on September 26th, as the penultimate stage, but the date may vary based on the order of the stages. So, if you're passing through Polignano, don't miss it!
If, on the other hand, you are there at a different time and cannot attend, we recommend checking out our experiences in Polignano a Mare.